SWAMPSCOTT — Middle School Teacher Lisa Rapisarda, who has been working at schools in town since 1996, was named Educator of the Year by the Swampscott Education Association.
“I certainly didn’t expect it,” she said. “I never thought for a minute this would happen. … But to be recognized by the colleagues and peers you work with every day, it’s so meaningful and validating. It shows people notice you working hard and appreciating the things you do, I just feel seen, heard and honored. It’s amazing.”
Rapisarda explained that she started teaching at the high school in 1996, where she taught grades 9-12 for about five years before stepping away to have children and work part-time for the Special Education department. She later came back to work at the middle school and taught 6th grade, switching gears from teaching Special Education to Social Studies, which she said she’s taught for about ten years.
During summer vacation, Rapisarda also teaches at the Discovery Learning Program, where she works primarily with students with autism.
“They come for an extended school year, and I’m lucky enough to keep my foot in the door of Special Education where I get to work with those students over the summer months,” she said.
Making a real impact in the lives of her students is “like a dream come true,” she said.
“I always wanted to be somebody that the kids could look up to, or someone they could turn to if they needed to — and especially in this day and age — some kids can feel lost, and being somebody they can trust and count on and know that I’m always here, that’s so powerful for me,” she said. “To be a stable force or person in their lives that they can turn to. … That’s pretty awesome.”
Rapisarda also cited her colleagues she works with, as well as Superintendent of Schools Jason Calichman and High School Principal Emily Zotto, for their support.
“I couldn’t have done this these last couple of years without their leadership and guidance, and my team has been amazing, too. … We’re a great team, and we work together well, and for me to receive this honor, I felt that I couldn’t accept it without saying that they support me and give me the things I need to do a good job,” she said.
Longtime friend Linda Hayes shared her thoughts on Rapisarda reaching the milestone.
“I’ve known Lisa since 1st grade; we go way back. I know her to be extremely thorough and conscientious, and all the kids loved her and were excited to have her as a teacher. … As one of my friends pointed out, her classroom is magical, she takes it to heart and takes the time that the kids need to learn,” Hayes said.
